Our Nesting Blackbirds Life Of A Blackbird Nest

A Glimpse Into The World Of A Nesting Blackbird In Our Garden.

I love blackbirds and love telling the story of our nesting blackbirds. We were so honoured to have them build a nest on our patio in the trellis of a raised bed! The female and her mate have subsequently raised a brood of four baby blackbird chicks from the clutch of eggs.

I try to have a bird and wildlife friendly garden and this was indeed a treat! So since we saw the nest we have been taking photos and keeping an unobtrusive watch for our blackbirds.

I now want to share the experience and show you our beautiful blackbirds and their chicks.

It would also be lovely if you want to share any of your experiences of birdwatching or your nesting blackbirds in the Guestbook at the end of this page. Thank you :)

Do You Have Blackbirds Nesting In Your Garden?

Love for you to vote in the poll below to get a basic idea if we can find out if people are seeing blackbirds in their gardens.

Have You Seen Blackbirds Nesting In Your Garden?

Yes I have seen them for the first time this year!

Yes they have nested in my garden this year and the year before

Blackbirds nest in my garden every year

Blackbirds used to nest in my garden but I have not seen them this year.

Blackbirds Appearance

The male blackbird is a striking black bird with a bright yellow beak. He also has an eye ring. They are very easy to identify.

The females are brown and may have spots or streaks on their breasts.

Blackbird behaviours

Territory is important and male blackbirds will establish a territory within the first year of their lives. They will defend this territory from about Spring until late summer(July)

It is very important for pair breeding and nesting. A pair will usually remain monogamus as long as they both survive.

After rearing the young both males and females tend to stay in the same territory (as long as there is sufficient food) though live seperately.

After the last fledgings have flown, the territory breaks up and birds tend to relax the boundaries until the autumn. From spring until July they are once again defended.

The life expectancy of a Blackbird is commonly two to three years.

Nesting Blackbird Mum With Eggs

Nesting Blackbird Mum With Eggs | Source

The Nest

Blackbirds attempt to bring up about two or three broods a year during the time of March to late June. Exact timings depend on weather conditions.

The nests appearance as you can see in the photos I took is a large nest made up of mud, grass, twigs and various plant materials. She built the nest over a couple of weeks. It is quite an untidy stricture but an amazing feat- I dont think I could do as well!

Blackbird Nest Built On Trellis Of Raised Bed!

Bird Feeding Table

Attract Nesting Birds To Your Garden

If you want to attract blackbirds and other birds to your garden you need to provide the basics of food, shelter and water.

Here is a start with a lovely and stylish bird table feeder. Adds beauty to your garden and provides essential food for the birds

There are many different styles of Bird tables some very simple to the most elaborate, some basic , some with a lot of character and always one to suit any garden.

Take a look to find one for your birds.

Love Birdbaths!

If you want to attract blackbirds or any other birds into your garden then you need to provide a good source of clean water for drinking and bathing. Many people feed birds but forget to provide water. If you would like to see blackbirds nesting in your garden this is a good first step.

Blackbirds love to bathe! I have often see our nesting blackbird parents take a dip in the birdbath we have. They splash about, clean their feathers and seem to have a great time!

We keep our birdbath on the patio so we can see the birds easily without disturbing them :)

There are many different designs and styles of birdbaths. This one is the most similar to the one we have. If however you prefer a different style just click through and you will find many many more of all different designs and price points.

Where To Build A Blackbird Nest?

Blackbirds can build nests in Shrubs, trees climbers or even in buildings. The female is the one to expertly build the nest.

In our garden this female blackbird decided to build her nest on our patio extremely close to our house.

She sited it on the trellis of a raised bed I had built for me when I had severe back pain and could not garden normally. That is why it is at waist height.

She had a couple of weeks of frantic nest building where she would browse around the garden looking for twigs,grass,mud and anything else nestworthy. She found an abundance in our garden!

This is why the RSPB (Royal Society For The Protection of Birds) say to not have too tidy a garden if you want to attract and keep wildlife happy and safe there. A few twigs, grass and mud do not matter to me but mean the world to our blackbird.

We haven't gone onto our patio since early April when we noticed she was building the nest and the raised bed has gone a bit wild!! She doesn't seem to mind :)

Springwatch Highlights of a Nesting Blackbird video

View Above A Blackbirds Nest

View Above A Blackbirds Nest | Source

Nesting Blackbirds Brooding the Eggs

Waiting for the hatching.

A fter a couple of weeks of frantic nestbuilding we noticed that the female blackbird was sitting on the nest. She sat there day after day only leaving for short breaks. Usually between three to five eggs are laid.

Obviously I did not disturb the nest to look. I have read that only the female broods the eggs and we did see her sitting diligently for days only leaving them for brief feeding periods.

However we also saw the male blackbird sitting for a while sometimes when she was off feeding- so I can't explain that but maybe he was a new man!

Blackbird Nest in April

Blackbird Nest in April | Source

Keeping The Blackbird Eggs Warm

Keeping The Blackbird Eggs Warm | Source

Hatching And Feeding The New Blackbird Chicks!

She was sitting on the eggs for about two weeks before I noticed the first signs of chicks and feeding.

Once they hatched the male blackbird got involved as well. At first we could not see the chicks at all but they grew quickly.

Both parents presented the chicks with mainly worms from our garden. I understand they eat caterpillars too but I only saw worms being presented.

We noticed that the male and female generally took it in turns to feed the chicks. It was interesting that the male would fly in give each chick a worm then fly off. The female always stayed a little longer as if she was checking them all over!

New Blackbird Chicks!

New Blackbird Chicks! | Source

Orphaned Baby Blackbirds - Out Of The Nest - What to do if you find an orphaned baby Blackbird..

Advice from the RSPB on sightings of orphaned baby blackbirds out of their nest.

Please read if you find any baby blackbird out of its nest and you think it may be orphaned. .

Please note Fledglings should almost never be rescued, but should be left well alone in the care of their parents. You may not see the parents but they may be nearby and caring for the chick.

Orphaned baby Blackbirds.FROM THE PAGE
Now and again partly developed blackbird chicks are found outside the nest, often because of predators such as cats. If possible, the chick should be returned to the nest. Should this not be possible, the chicks survival is dependent o

Bringing Home Food For Chicks

Bringing Home Food For Blackbird Chicks | Source

Blackbird chicks in nest video - Adorable little blackbird chicks

Cute Baby Blackbirds In Nest

Cute Baby Blackbirds In Nest | Source

Blackbird Predators!

Cats are the main predator of the Blackbird in gardens. Please do all you can to avoid your cat attacking them.

In addition the fox is a predator and birds of prey particularly the Sparrowhawk and also the Magpie.

Sometimes Cuckoos will lay their eggs in a blackbird nest. However this is not common as adult blackbirds recognize the eggs and adult cuckoos.

Feeding Many Blackbird Chicks

Feeding Many Blackbird Chicks | Source

So Many Baby Bird Mouths, So Little TIme.

So Many Baby Blackbird Mouths, So Little TIme. | Source

Blackbird babies leaving home.

I read that blackbird chicks should be ready to fledge at 14 days old but our little ones seem very happy to stay right where they are!

Despite the parents tempting them by flying in with a big fat juicy worm then leaving without feeding them the chicks stayed put and then the parent returned and fed them! The chicks are getting nice and big and seem very happy apart from the lack of space!

There are four healthy looking chicks in there which I understand is a good clutch to rear as losses are very common at the egg and chick stage. Normally the young birds would creep out from the nest but I think our guys will have to fly down.

Apparently they stay under cover for a few days and I am worried about cats but we will see and hope.

Once the chicks have left the nest the male will look after them for about a further 3 weeks until they are flying and feeding independently.

During this time the female is busy brooding another clutch of eggs. and so it goes.

About Birds A Guide For Children - Educate children about birds.

Teach Children About Birds

I think it is very important for children to learn about and respect our wildlife, including birds as young as possible.

That way hopefully they will grow up not only appreciating the wonderful world of nature and birds but also wanting to protect it.

Blackbird Chick

Blackbird Chick | Source

Blackbird Chick Growing Up

Blackbird Chick Growing Up | Source

Make Your Garden Better For Blackbirds.

8 Ways To A BlackBird Friendly Garden

8 Top Tips

1. To nest they need shrubs, trees, climbers or an outbuilding. See if you can provide one of these by planting a shrub or climber.

2. Blackbirds need nesting materials such as mud,straw,grass,twigs. Do not have your garden too tidy in the spring and summer- leave a few twigs and grass around. Leave a few patches where mud is easily accessible. If it is dry then water some of the patches of earth to help her build her nest.

3. When you see evidence of nesting keep away and do not try to look inside or bother her. Keep unobtrusive and you will have the pleasure of seeing the chicks grow up.

4. If you have a cat keep him or her away from the nest. Put a cat bell on.

5. If your neighbours have cats you could try one of the cat deterrant devices(humane only)or deterrant pellets. Perhaps ask nicely if they will put a bell on her.

6. Teach children to be respectful of the nest and they will experience the wonder of nature.

Do You Love Nesting Blackbirds?

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sending

Marjie Butler 3 months ago

I have a nesting blackbird in my clematis - have spotted three eggs so far. I'm feeding her mealworms.

I feel very privileged that she has chosen my garden

Author

RaintreeAnnie 5 months agofrom UK

Hi Cynthia, how wonderful you have nesting Blackbirds in your clematis! and Robins close by too-you are so lucky!! You sound very caring and is there any way you can delay the pruning of the clematis? It does sound as if there are eggs or young chicks in there and it is not good to disturb them. Nests should not be disturbed or damaged. A delay to the pruning will not hurt the clematis but could hurt the nesting birds and chicks. Wild birds need all the help they can get and you are so lucky they have chosen to nest on your patio. It is always best to prune outside of the nesting season. I hope you get to see young chicks very soon, it is amazing! Thank you so much for visiting.

Cynthia Giles 5 months ago

Nesting Blackbirds in clematis on small patio. Surprisingly, it appeared as if Robins were also nesting close by. I saw the robin disappear into the clematis and the blackbird quickly returned to its nest and the robin flew away but returned later. We are having our clematis pruned next week, although still in flower and I am concerned about the birds as they have been there about a month now and until today, I thought they had left the nest. Today I saw the blackbird go into the nest three times.

Author

RaintreeAnnie 12 months agofrom UK

Hi Irene,

I am not sure...I saw both parents looking after the chicks. I imagine that if only one parent is left they would maybe try their best to feed the chicks and look after them , though it would be harder for them.

Irene Novelli 16 months ago

If a mother blackbird hasn't returned to her chicks will the father take care of them

Bron, Australia 23 months ago

mother blackbird has three beautiful eggs. Father is more in the picture lately, scavenging not far from the nest.

Bron, Australia 23 months ago

I have very much enjoyed reading about your blackbirds. I've been watching mine and wondering if the female ever left the nest to feed. Last evening I saw her return to her nest after feeding. Very carefully she checked for dangers, not identifying the nest site by flitting around from tree to railing, to fence then back to tree etc. many times before she felt she would not be observed. Immediately she alighted she sat perfectly still in her usual nesting position. I felt so fortunate to watch her. Now I'm anxiously awaiting the cries of the young. Thank you.

Sue Bedworth 2 years ago

Just a quick update... Got home from work today to find the male blackbird perched on the edge of the nest feeding the female and some tiny chicks hiding underneath her. Later both parents were taking it in turns to feed them and I was able to count 4 chicks. They are so tiny with just a bit of grey fluff but their mouths are huge! I have done a bit of digging in the garden but did not find many worms so gave up and bought some mealworms from the pet shop! They absolutely love them and I have been putting a few out each day.

Author

RaintreeAnnie 2 years agofrom UK

Hi Sue Thankyou so much for the update. How is the digging going? You may find when they get used to you they will follow you around :) I think it is lovely you feel protective of your blackbirds nesting. They must feel safe nesting near your window or they would not have chosen that spot. Yes we had all that rain and wind too and I felt for the birds. Hopefully the weather may improve now. I would love to hear your updates of your nesting blackbirds so do keep us posted :)

Sue Bedworth 2 years ago

Hi thanks for the advice. It looks like I will have to get digging! The flowerbeds badly need weeding so now I have an incentive to do it. I know that Mrs blackbird has chosen this spot for her nest just because it is sheltered by the house but I do feel quite honoured that she trusts us not to harm her. In fact I feel quite protective of her. I felt so sorry for her last night sitting on her nest in all that wind and rain. She doesn't get too wet where she is but it still can't be very nice.

I first noticed a pair of blackbirds in our garden last year. We live in quite an urban area so don't get many birds but these two appeared quite suddenly and would spend hours in our garden last Summer. I was sure they had a nest nearby because they were always flying off with beaks full of worms. I hadn't seen much of them this year until about a month ago when Mrs blackbird started sitting on the kitchen windowsill watching me do the dishes. Now I know what she was up to!

This morning she has hardly left the nest. She is being a very good Mum and keeping her eggs warm in this cooler weather. Will update when they start to hatch...

Author

RaintreeAnnie 2 years agofrom UK

@Sue How wonderful! :) I have not heard of a blackbird building so close to a house before, you will need to be quiet near that window in the kitchen! Thank you for liking my page, I am glad it has been of use to you. I did not leave food out for the blackbirds but we are always digging in the garden and the adults would take full advantage of that and follow us around getting their food and food to feed the young. So if you want to help them you could do some light digging in different parts of your garden! Also if its very dry water a few yards of earth so its soaking to make it bit easier for them to find food. We also have a bird bath that the adults used several times a day for water and for bathing. So I do think a bird bath is very important too. Needs fresh water every day. They all looked glossy and healthy so were in good condition. Watch out for predators especially when the baby blackbirds fledge. I do hope all goes well with your blackbirds and would love to hear how things go.

Sue Bedworth 2 years ago

What a wonderful, informative page. A blackbird has just built her nest outside our kitchen window. We have a wonderful view - she is literally just the other side of the glass. She started building the nest last Wednesday but this morning she was sitting in there and when she left to feed I was able to see 3 eggs and get a quick photo through the window. I found your page as I was searching for information and the detail in your diary entries has answered a lot of my questions. Did you ever try leaving food out for them? I was thinking of getting some mealworms to see if they will take them.

Author

RaintreeAnnie 2 years agofrom UK

Hi lilian, oh I am so sorry to hear what happened to the nest...Sadly that has happened to nests in our garden as well. I had even discussed it with the RSPB but they said its just a natural thing that happens. The blackbirds will likely try again but as you say in a deeper part of the garden where hopefully the eggs will be more protected. Hopefully you will see them nest again. The only thing we can do is to try to grow plants so that there are more sheltered and protected areas for them to nest in. It sounds like you have these areas already in your garden so just keep a watch and you may well see nestbuilding activity again. Thank you so much for visiting here and posting your blackbird story, I appreciate that and hopefully you will soon see more nests.

lilian winstanley 2 years ago

I am sorry to write of the sad ending to the story of the blackbird in the trellis outside our kitchen window. Yesterday, about 4pm the nest was attacked by at least one magpie. I had seen the blackbird most of the day, sitting, going off for short periods, returning, and settling again.

I was aware there were 5 magpie in the vicinity and heard a commotion and chattering around the nest site. The blackbird had been driven off and there was remains of at least one egg on the ground.

I went outside and looked in the nest and there were 2 eggs remaining, so I came back indoors and watched. The blackbird came back within 5 minutes and was perched on the edge of the nest and appeared to be tidying up.

Eventually she settled in the nest again and all looked to be ok.

Then one magpie came back and the blackbird flew off. The magpie also didn't stay and I hoped that the blackbird might return as it was now getting dusk.

It rained in the night and there was no bird sitting this morning so I eventually went and had another look.

The 2 eggs were still there but the nest was damp and had not been visited. Everything felt cold.

It was a sad start to the day for me as I eventually removed the 2 eggs just to stop the magpies from gaining anything. Silly perhaps, but it was how I felt.

I am glad this didn't happen in say 10 days time when the eggs would have hatched. We know this is natural when it happens but I hope that perhaps the blackbird will build again in the deeper part of the garden where she has raised chicks before.

Author

RaintreeAnnie 2 years agofrom UK

Hello lilian Thankyou so much for sharing your story of the nesting blackbird in your garden vine. Good for her that she stayed in the nest protecting her eggs during the hail storm. I think it is lovely that you can observe this wonderful story evolve and that you are being so respectful of her, that is the best way to have wildlife in your garden. You are doing the right thing leaving the area alone for now and letting them get on with rearing their family. I really do hope all goes well, would love to hear if you notice any baby blackbirds hatching and fledging. Keep watching from the kitchen window :)

lilian winstanley 2 years ago

We had a massive hailstone shower 2 days ago and were concerned that it might have driven our blackbird away as the top of the vine doesn't have leaves to protect her.

After the hail we noticed that she had sat through it all even though it must have been uncomfortable and probably painful. The edges of the nest were white with hail.

She took off shortly afterwards but returned to her duties some 10 minutes later. Today we observed her turning the eggs over before settling again.

Its just a lovely sight because she is so close, although we still have no idea how many eggs she is brooding.

lilian winstanley 2 years ago

We are thrilled that our blackbird has just started sitting on her nest in trellis to the rear of our house. We weren't aware there was a nest this year until we started to tidy up the Russian vine one week ago. At first she was only in the nest first thing of a morning but today, for the first time this year she is sitting properly. The area where she has built is now out of bounds but we can see her from the back kitchen window.

The rear of the house is fairly secluded and the vine is thick and high enough on top of the fence to deter cats from trying to walk along it.

We do have the occasional squirrel in the back but we will make sure there is no food left out for them in that area. Hoping for a successful rearing now.

s jones 2 years ago

We are very lucky and have a black birds nest in the hedge right next to the pane of glass in our conservatory

Author

RaintreeAnnie 2 years agofrom UK

annmackiemiller I know we were so lucky. We do have lots of birds nesting but I have never had such a good and close view of a nest before. Thank you so much for the share and stumble :)

annmackiemiller 2 years agofrom Bingley Yorkshire England

lucky you to have them so close - stumbled and shared

Author

RaintreeAnnie 2 years agofrom UK

Thank you so much Lady Lorelei :) Yes I do love nature. I find all the birds and other creatures and flowers, trees etc so fascinating and simply wonderful! Love to hear how you are organic and welcoming of birds in your garden. When we moved here the previous owners had used chemicals and it took a couple of years of not using them to regain the balance in the garden, but now it works very well and we have so much more wildlife and healthy plants :)

Lorelei Cohen 2 years agofrom Canada

I am so happy every time I see someone who truly loves nature and all of its inhabitants. We have many fruit trees in our yard and have kept them organic by welcoming birds to share our yard. They consume a lot of insects throughout their day. We left one cherry tree to grow fully and the larger birds: blue jays, crows, and woodpeckers feed on the cherries in the upper half while we enjoy the lower ones. It is a gardening practice that has worked very well for us. The balance works out beautifully.

happynutritionist 3 years ago

What a treat this must have been...we have grackles and starlings, but not blackbirds.

Paula Atwell 3 years agofrom Cleveland, OH

Wow! Really interesting and beautiful pictures. We don't seem to have those birds in my area. Other ones though. :)

Jim 3 years agofrom Kansas

Thanks for sharing. I love watching nesting birds. This was almost as good as being there.

Cheryl Paton 3 years agofrom West Virginia

We did have some nesting sparrows in a birdhouse that I mounted on the back fence. That was pretty neat. There are blackbirds in the area, just haven't noticed any of their nests close by.

DreyaB 3 years agofrom France

I love blackbirds. I know they're quite common in the UK, but they're a beautiful and underrated bird and their song is wonderful. My vote was 'other' mainly because we had blackbirds nesting in the old garden, but I can't actually tell you if they've nested here as this garden and land a quite wild and rambling, though we certainly have blackbirds around. I love watching the birds and this year we've had two broods of Great Tits and another year of nesting Redstarts - yes you read that right! I remember listening to blackbird song at dusk when I was a small child in the height of summer in Yorkshire... Good memories. :0)

Marti Lawrence 3 years agofrom Grain Valley, Missouri

What an interesting and well-written page!

Cynthia Sylvestermouse 3 years agofrom United States

We love our blackbirds too! Both my son and my daughter adore Ravens, so any blackbird is welcome in our yard and garden.

Great article! I really enjoyed reading about your blackbirds.

sandystuart 3 years ago

Wonderful information! Thank you ! We have two now abandoned blackbird nests in our garden - we are wondering whether we should leave these in case the birds come back another time and refurbish them or should they be removed?

sukkran trichy 3 years agofrom Trichy/Tamil Nadu

being a bird watcher, i love this lens very much. your pictures, vids and info are really amazing. Very much enjoyed my visit. thank you.

Johnnie132 3 years ago

We have had a pair of beautiful blackbirds on our balcony carrying out the pre-parental duties as they and we awaited the hatching of their four lovely blue eggs. The hatching was imminent and ,to my distress, I came home this evening and the nest is completely empty, no mother bird, no male , no eggs, nothing!! Our balcony is on the second floor and the nest was quite secluded. What can have happened?

blackbirds 3 years ago

We have a blackbird nest in a hedge very close to our back door. I first saw the empty nest (I had not seen it being built), a few days ago. One day later, there was one egg, then two more over two days. There did not seem to be any bird sitting on the eggs until after they had all three been laid.

Now, the male has been there most of the time, except to fly the couple of yards to where I feed mealworms regularly to many birds. I found this delay in sitting and then the male bird on duty rather odd behaviour and through my head went 'He has obviously 'married' a young bird who doesn't get the hang of what to do, other than lay eggs. He is now having to show her how to do it!'

I wonder if anyone has encountered similar behaviour in Blackbirds.

Androcles 3 years ago

I have had plenty of blackbird nests in my garden over the years but never a successful fledging. I now work from home so I was determined to make a blackbird friendly environment and do my best to ensure that any nest wasn't predated. A pair of blackbirds took up residence at Christmas and by February were spending most of their time in my garden and clearly considering my conifer hedges as nest sites. I hoped they would choose my old shed - I put off demolishing it to give them the chance - but they didn't seem interested. The hen started nest building but in a clump of trees 4 gardens along. They seemed careful operators but magpies were nesting not far away and the nest was abandoned within a week. Undeterred the cock was singing again and the hen nest building within a day or so. This time in a tree in the front garden of the house opposite - where blackbirds made 2 failed attempts last year. I think my blackbird feeding - apple cores, old blueberries etc,. has encouraged the birds to use my garden as a safe haven away from the nest site so has been rather counter productive.

Evelyn Saenz 3 years agofrom Royalton

Blackbirds are all around our house but I have never seen their nests. You are so lucky to have had them nest in their garden. :)

Barbara Radisavljevic 3 years agofrom Templeton, CA

I see blackbirds in the area from time to time, but although I have many trees and shrubs, twigs and grass, I've never seen a nest for them here. Of course, we also have cats and hawks around. And water is scarce.

anonymous 4 years ago

Hi. What a smashing page. I have discovered a blackbird nest in a shrub in our garden and took a peek.....very carefully. I couldn't see the female only three eggs and was a little worried that she had left them. After coming across your page and reading that the nest may be left unattended I thought I would double check. I have just tiptoed out and looked again and there she is sitting on her eggs!!! I was very careful not to get too close and haven't touched anything at all. I'm really pleased and also quite excited about the thought of the new chicks. I only thought to take a look in the first place because I kept seeing a blackbird going in and out of the shrub. Cheers

Author

RaintreeAnnie 4 years agofrom UK

@gottaloveit2: Yes I agree a beautiful experience :)

Author

RaintreeAnnie 4 years agofrom UK

@gottaloveit2: Yes I agree a beautiful experience :)

Author

RaintreeAnnie 4 years agofrom UK

@Aunt-Mollie: Oh they are sooo cute. its such a priviledge when they nest where you can see them. Enjoy it. :) We have a nest right now but it is so hidden so we will just leave it be and know that they are happy there.

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RaintreeAnnie 4 years agofrom UK

@honeybeecharmer: I appreciate your visit and your story. Oh its sad when things seem not to go right with nests, I do not know what has happened. You can take heart though that the blackbirds liked your garden and hopefully will return to try another nest maybe this year maybe next. Clearly it does pay to leave some of the garden at least a little wild. we always do in our gardens and we have several nests now every year. Good nesting sites, water and a food supply and just watchful waiting. Hopefully you will see another nest.

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RaintreeAnnie 4 years agofrom UK

@ecogranny: Thank you ! I also appreciate you letting me know re the photo - I will rectify that. Glad you enjoyed the page. :)

Kathryn Grace 4 years agofrom San Francisco

Wonderful page! Turns out I've been here before and had forgotten. I love all the photos of the nesting birds. Btw, the module titled "Red Winged Blackbird Eggs in Nest" is missing its photograph. That does not detract from the page, though. Perfect interlude with my morning cuppa.

honeybeecharmer 4 years ago

HI, I was delighted to find a nest in my garden under the rose and Jasmine trellis, I had left the garden in a real mess last summer , as the weather was soo bad here in Wiltshire, planning to re do the whole garden. Three weeks ago I began as the weather was good , only to find a nest !beautifully made , , and female blackbird sitting in it , I left her to it and watched from my bedroom window with binoculars , I did not see a male at all, and often the nest was left for a full day , finally I did look carefully , I saw four eggs , later the female returned , and another week went by , still no male ?, I had to go away on holiday hoping that on my return I would find baby's , alas no sigh of the female sitting , I waited for three days then looked all the eggs had gone ! I found one broken empty egg that fitted together under the nest on the ground, I wonder what happened ? I can hear beautiful song from the blackbirds now , and there is a female still around, so I am staying clear ...? I wonder what can have happened , as all the time I speak of is three weeks , no sight of any baby's at all ?? any one know , I dont think a cat could reach , the nest was well hidden high and safe . I am sad , hopping she will return , what do you think ??? ( thank you for the beautiful film.

notsosad2001 4 years ago

@RaintreeAnnie: I ve done this and she keeps comin over I'm hopin she lays eggs but this past yr we've had 2 cats comin over the garden tried all sorts to keep them away but to no avail even planted them smelly cat plant they not supposed to like but didn't work don't know if any one got any suggestsions x

Aunt-Mollie 4 years ago

I have a bird nesting just above our bedroom window right now. The babies have hatched and are just learning how to fly. So cute!

gottaloveit2 4 years ago

My folks had hummingbirds nesting on their trellis in Arizona. The eggs were a bit smaller than a jellybean. We watched them hatch and fly off. Truly a fabulous experience as was reading this article. Blessed!

anonymous 5 years ago

I have just witnessed the breeding of three blackbirds- it has been a fascinating experience- this is the second time they have nested in my bouganvillea bush which is right opposite my kitchen window and an ideal spot to watch for any predators. Last year I experienced something quite dreadful- the fledglings were doing well and I had been keeping a careful eye on them as from time to time there are magpies and crows in my garden- one morning I had been watching the mother popping back to feed her babies- the telephone rang as I reached to answer it I saw a large crow just fly in and take two of the fledglings- I dashed out but too late- the parents flew after the crow but to no avail- for days afterward they would sit on the trellis looking in the direction where the crows had flown. I was so distressed- so this time I was very pleased to see the nest was right in the middle of the bush and well hidden from view. One of the babies was quite small and I had grave concerns for its welfare but I was delighted when I saw it this evening on the ground and well hidden behind another thick bush- the parents were coming out for feed and taking it back to the baby. No sign of the other two they were quite large and probably able to fend for themselves.

I have enjoyed reading your comments and realise that I am not the only person fascinated by blackbirds. I now call the male bird when he hears my voice his head turns from side to side- he them hops down from the fence and now comes up quite close to me for his food then disappears very quickly. I read that blackbirds can have two or three broods in a year- how long between broods?

anonymous 5 years ago

I was very gloomy when I submitted my message in July. I could not see how blackbirds could possibly breed in my area. Cats, squirrels, magpies and crows proliferate and, to cap it all, I have had more sparrowhawk visits to my garden this year than ever before - I have seen 2 sparrows taken from my bird feeders. The 2 blackbirds I followed all spring and summer as they made valiant, but doomed, attempts to breed departed after their 4th failure. I had 3 days without any blackbird visits when I noticed a male mooching around my garden - he had a much more pronounced eye ring than the previous bird suggesting he was an old fellow. The next time I saw him he was in a flurry of activity taking a bread and scraps into my holly tree - it was clear that he was feeding young. I caught a glimpse of 2 youngsters under the tree but they were out of sight for the most part. Then, about 10 days later, I pulled my curtains one morning to see 4 young blackbirds around the edge of my lawn scurrying for cover at the firdt hint of danger. The father was still about but not feeding them although they would fly to him whenever he appeared. One evening he was on my garden fence with the the 4 youngsters lined up next to him (I prayed that the sparrowhawk wasn't watching!). I gradually saw less and less of the youngsters and eventually they all left and then about a week later the father had gone as well. I never saw the hen. I would love to know where they had nested - it couldn't have been far away because the youngsters could barely fly when I first saw them. Why would the male lead his young away from his territory? Anyway my faith has returned and I cannot wait until next spring!

Joy Neasley 5 years agofrom Nashville, TN

This is a great lens. I love the photos. i usually end up with Robins or Bluebird nests.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@Kell2u: Please check with the RSBP or your local wildlife trust on this one. I am sure they will advise you best.

anonymous 5 years ago

Found your site whilst looking for information. Story so far, 2 weeks ago we could hear a lot of commotion on the patio and our cat sitting staring intently into a low growing shrub. We put the cat indoors and found a very young barely fledged blackbird or thrush, werenot sure which then. Went onto the internet "bible" to find if carefully could help it survive with small amounts of cat food,then moved onto shredded suet from pet shop. We now have a fully fledged blackbird that thinks we are family,wont leave use, is particularly fond of my husband and comes to his call, sitting on his shoulder. We went away for 3 days taking cat with us as usual. Mrs Tweet was feeding herself, preening, obviously able to survive. Came back 3 days later saw she wasnt in either greenhouse where she had chosen to go during the day.(She rushes into open garage door at night and roosts up in the rafters til we open up next day.) We decided she had gone and were very happy for her. Back to unload the car and hurtling at us from the hedgerow was a very noisy and very cross Mrs Tweet. Straight into the garage with a glare at us and settled down for the night. She comes out in the morning, pecks happily around the garden, has spendid washes in the little fountain, demands food from us if she spots us and sits by the garage to go in at night!! WE do a turn and turn about with the cat, when he is in she is out and vice versa! WE are away again for 2 days at the end of this week and think she will be around when we come back although we hope she will find her own place with the other birds in our garden! I'll let you know next week!

anonymous 5 years ago

I have never known a spring/summer like this for young birds in my garden. Robins have fledged two broods (from the base of a tree that blackbirds were nesting in) and a chaffinch nest got 3 young away, Scores of young greenfinches, goldfinches, blue, coal and great tits have visited my feeders but my poor blackbirds have had 4 nests and 4 failures. The 3rd nest got to the feeding stage but all the others didn't go beyond incubation. It has been fascinating watching them, the hen making clicking noises when she wanted her mate - he watching from a rooftop when she went to the nest. The 3rd nest was built deep in a conifer hedge and could not be seen from the outside. To get to the nest she would hop from a streetside tree to my garden fence, go through a small gap between the fence and the hedge and then along the inside of the hedge for a about 2 metres to the nest. This routine would be followed everytime. The problem was that she would leave the nest by a more direct route straight trough the hedge into my garden - thus revealing the whereabots of the nest. With both birds going to the nest there was a good chance of a magpie or cat spotting a bird suddenly appearing out of a hedge - despite my efforts to keep cats out of my garden. The other 3 nests were definately predated by magpies - we should be allowed to trap those menaces!

anonymous 5 years ago

Hello, I loved reading your story of the blackbird. I have a pair of blackbirds with two young who were fed by the male and now another your bird has appeared so as you say the female was sitting on another brood. I did have a robin in the garden for the last 21/2 years who was very very close to my family and used to visit us every day and come into the house. On June 4th our robin suddenly disappeared around the same time the blackbirds appeared in garden with the young. I know the robin could have come to some harm but I was also thinking did the arrival of the blackbirds in the garden have anything to do with his disappearance. I know birds are molting at the moment but as he is missing now for three weeks I feel we would have noticed him in the garden at some stage. His "partner" does appear now and again. I hope he is ok. Could you throw any light on this situation. many thanks

Kell2u 5 years ago

I would love some advise... we have our first blackbird nest in a conifer tree in our backyard, however, the nest was build rather low to the ground. We have two adorable golden retrievers who are so far unaware of the nest but are very confused and intrigued by the parent blackbirds who dive and squawk at them. I was worried that after the eggs hatch the noise of the babies would attract the dogs, and since the nest is relatively low, they might harm the chicks. My husband and I have put up a chain link fence around the tree but I am worried that the chicks, when ready to leave the nest, may not be able to clear this 6 foot high fence. Was the installation of this fence a bad idea and should we remove it? Help!

anonymous 5 years ago

I have two blackbirds nesting close by and actually in our garden for a few years now and they have got used to us throwing dry catfood to them which they stuff their beaks with and fly off, presumably to feed their chicks. Their second batch of chicks have been in our garden with the parents feeding them and now are feeding themselves. However on Sunday two Magpies arrived (they too regularly visit our garden) and after feeding for a few minutes on the food left out one of them noticed one of the young blackbirds which was trying to hide behind one of our ladders located just behind the Magpie. In a matter of seconds the Magie leapt at the young blackbird, attacking it and dragging it out from behind the ladder. As I was witnessing this event I did no more but open my back door in the hope that the noise would scare the Magpie and luckily this worked. The Magpies flew off and the young blackbird survived. It flew off with its father who was frantically using it's loud alarm call. I am so glad the Magpie was not successful but I understand that this is normal behaviour and "natures way" and I obviosuly do not dislike the Magpies as a result as they are very obviously feeding young as well and I understand that they make extremely good parents.

anonymous 5 years ago

There's a nest in the ivy adjacent to my bedroom window. The chicks have just hatched, and the adults are taking it in turns to feed them. I took your advice, and left fresh organic apples and blueberries out on my windowsill twice daily, however the male will only take the blueberries, and keeps returning looking for more...

anonymous 5 years ago

I have baby blackbirds that are appx 3-4 weeks old, the mother is still feeding them. They are behind my gutter but inside the roof nice and warm. My concern is if the opening is big enough for them to get out and when are they going to leave. Mom and dad go in and out alot and she is still feeding them, I would of thought that they would be gone by now. What is going on with them ?

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: I hope the remaining chick thrived Amy. This does seem to be part of what nesting blackbirds go through. Not all chicks survive but she does seem to be feeding and caring for the last one. I hope it has a happy outcome.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Oh Joan that is sad. Sometimes the chicks just do not make it. There was nothing you could have done. The adults will probably build another nest and try again.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Thank you I am glad you have enjoyed this page about our nesting blackbirds. Yes it is exciting watching them grow up! In terms of food if it is very dry make sure you keep some earth well watered so the birds can reach worms and insects. The adults will find what they need. Read the RSPB website link above on this page to find out what the birds need to eat.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Thank you for your comment and blackbird story. I wonder if it is a fledgling assisting? Hope all goes well with your robins, let us know if you can.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Interesting blackbird story! I have not seen 3 blackbirds assisting at a nest. If anyone does know about this would love to hear from you.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@Blackspaniel1: Thank you

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Than you for sharing your nesting blackbird story. Sadly this is often the case that several chicks do not survive but if 2 or the 4 did that is good.

anonymous 5 years ago

We have a pair of blackbirds that have nested and hatched 4 young ones. Two weeks after the hatching, they have all "left" the nest and are now jumping around our backyard while being fed by their parents. Unfortunately only 2 of the 4 survived, not sure of the reason for the death of the 2 young ones, hope the remaining 2 will grow up to fly away!

Blackspaniel1 5 years ago

Nice lens

anonymous 5 years ago

@anonymous: Hi

The male blackbird is very distinctive as he is completely black with a yellow beak. The female is brown all over and does not have the yellow beak. I have never heard of female or male blackbirds helping other blackbirds. The female and male usually work as a pair raising their chicks. Is it possible that the other birds you saw were fledgelings i.e. the chicks were vacating the nest due to their size and age?

I have a pair that come in to our garden every day and nested last year in a bush at the bottom. They particularly like dry cat food and wait for us to throw it out to them every morning.

We are quite excited this year as we have a pair of robins that have built a nest in our garden and we are now eagerly awaiting the eggs/chicks.

anonymous 5 years ago

Our neighbors' house is very close to ours &amp; there is a blackbird nest built into a sturdy vine that grows against their home. Naturally we have been fascinated by the events! The female had been sitting on eggs &amp; occasionally leaving to eat. Once in awhile, what we think is the male, stops by &amp; sits in the nest. Today, there were 3 blackbirds checking the nest at the same time. I've been trying to find more information on this behavior - could it be another female assisting the nesting female. I've heard of this happening in the animal kingdom, but never witnessed it with birds. Does anyone have information on this?? Appreciate any comments you may have!

anonymous 5 years ago

Hi jasmineann I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about your blackbird family and looking at the pictures. I am so excited as I have just discovered oyur Blackbirds 4 chicks have hatched and are looking pretty healthy for the time being. I just called my Mum to tell her and she thought I had won the lottery as I was so excited! We noticed ROY (the father) was getting rather territorial in our garden and was taking on all sorts of birds that entered our garden including the Magpies. Its a shame as we are not getting as many of the other birds visiting now but I'm so chuffed we have the chicks. I was just wondering if you knew of any food sources I can put out to help them. My little one and I put bread out every morning but thats about it.

anonymous 5 years ago

i had a blackbird nest in my bay tree. i watched the female sitting on the nest and the male flying in and out with worms for a few weeks. i never saw the chicks at all,and one day i looked in the tree and could not see her sitting. when i did look in the nest it was empty and then i saw two babys dead in some water in my garden. i do not know what happened but i have not seen either bird since

anonymous 5 years ago

@anonymous: My little blackbird flew the nest 2 weeks ago on Wednesday! I was so happy when i got up in the morning to find it hopping around in my garden. It went under my gate later in the day and i haven't seen it since. I have seen the mother this week, it looks like she may be brroding again.She's collecting moss and twigs again but hasn't been back to the nest in our garden and unfortunatly we have to take the tree down that is in our garden as the roots are destroying the fence posts so I won't be seeing anymore chicks in my garden next year :( x

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@flicker lm: Thankyou , I appreciate that.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@WriterJanis2: Glad you like the photos, I had to be careful when taking them.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Thankyou:)

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Thank you. Yes they don't always seem to choose a great spot to nest do they ! However 4 eggs is great and I hope all continues to go well.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@MindPowerProofs1: Lovely ! Hope all is going well. We have had a lot of woodpigeons around here this year.

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Oh how lovely! They must trust you and are happy about the environment. Wishing you all the best with seeing chicks this year :)

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Hi Amy, I do hope things work out and the chick thrives. If there is just one to look after the pair should have a good chance of raising it. Let us know how it goes...

anonymous 5 years ago

I have a blackbird nesting in my garden at the moment. She nested last year but unfortunately a magpie got her eggs. This year all 4 of her eggs hatched but 3 of the chicks did'nt survive (she threw them out of the nest on to my patio). From what I can tell she still has one left and continues to feed it. She is a young female who was abandoned in my garden 2 years ago with an injured leg, I fed her and she lived under one of my hydrangers. She hasn't left since. Hopefully her little chick will survive and I wont find it on my patio tomorrow. Amy

anonymous 5 years ago

I have two blackbirds in my garden at the moment (a male and female). We believe they are feeding chicks as they fill their beaks with worms and insects and fly off. They look like the same pair we had last year that nested in our garden. They have been feeding on some dry cat food that we throw out to them. They have become so tame now that when we walk out in the garden, they come right up close to our legs to feed. The male even looked directly through our catflap the other day to remind us about the food. We have a pedigree cat that is not allowed out so the birds are completely safe. We have also noticed a robin that appears every day, also waiting for the cat food. I am looking forward to seeing the fledglings appear in the garden, as they did last year.

MindPowerProofs1 5 years ago

2 pigeons nested in my garden and I have 2 eggs now. Waiting to see the babies.

anonymous 5 years ago

Thank you so much for this page. It has calmed my fears about our lady blackbird seemingly doing al the work all by herself. She has behaved exactly as you describe though I do think she hasn't chosen a particulary good nesting site and put it down to inexperience!! She is now brooding four beautiful blue eggs (I took a peep when she went to feed). There is no sign of the male. I thought they were meant to sing their hearts out when the feamale was brooding.

anonymous 5 years ago

so beautiful.Thank you for sharing this with us!

WriterJanis2 5 years ago

I love all animals. We have so much wildlife here, I really don't know if any we have had blackbirds nesting. Love all the photos.

flicker lm 5 years ago

Yes, I love birds! We have *red-winged* blackbirds in this area, but I don't see them around my house, which is in a wooded area. Red-winged blackbirds seem to like the more open areas. Enjoyed your lens very much. Thanks!

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Hi Dorothy, Oh I am sorry to hear that the hatchlings were taken. It is difficult. I suppose its to make your garden blackbird friendly as possible. You cannot keep a vigil all the time and sadly this is a cause of loss of baby birds. Just keep your garden with lots of hiding places and shrubbery if you can. Hoping the next ones will survive and thrive.

anonymous 5 years ago

I am Dorothy from Melbourne, originally from UK so I love these birds. Blackbirds have nested on a seemingly safe high under-eave ledge opposite my kitchen window last year and this year (I left the nest intact) and both times the nestlings have been taken after hatching, on 30 December. I don't know if the predators are crows, or magpies. I need help!

anonymous 5 years ago

Well, Mummy Bird must have felt safe and comfortable in the nest next to my porch for her last lot of babies. She's back, sitting on another clutch of eggs! Looking forward to watching these ones grow up, too.

anonymous 5 years ago

@RaintreeAnnie: Hi Jo

I'm also from Melbourne! My beautiful birds were quick off the mark &amp; seemed to "mature" quicker than is normal. I had great joy watching them hatch from eggs &amp; looking like aliens to later resembling baby birds. One day they were in the nest &amp; the next they weren't, but I accidently spotted one of the fledglings hiding in another tree when I was gardening. Mummy &amp; daddy blackbird backed me into a corner in the front yard when I got too close! For about a week, I saw daddy bird shouting out instructions to this brood &amp; both parents keeping an eye on them. I had to shoo the neighbour's cat away several times so the birds would stay safe. Haven't seen them for about 2 weeks now, so I guess they have their "training wings" &amp; are off exploring the area. Enjoy watching them - it's wonderful entertainment!

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

Jo, I hope you don't mind but I have reposted your comment without your e mail address visible. I am concerned if I leave it up you may get spam comments.

Jo's Comment:-

Hello to all those who take the time to read this story! I am Jo from Melbourne "Down Under' in Australia! I, like many of you have had, what I thought to be, the same couple nesting in and around my garden for 4 years now. From reading this, that well may be the case! (Or not!) My pair have not successfully had a brood, but have made a nest or two each year, until now!!! I have Mr &amp; Mrs Blackbird (as we lovingly call them) successfully make a nest, sit on what we think are eggs (can't see) and now are taking it in turns to pop in and out to feed. (My hubby thinks we are raising elephants with the amount of feeding they do!) Keeping the majority of local cats away.... but our birds seems to be taking much longer than the times you have given here....is this normal?? love to have feedback!

anonymous 5 years ago

We recently had a carport built in our back yard, with a remote controlled entrance gate. The gate machinery includes a large (but not very powerful) light. A female blackbird is currently sitting on eggs in a nest she has built in the concave top of the light. It's a good spot as cats &amp; foxes can't get to her, and the roof keeps the nest protected from the rain. Prior to the carport the blackbirds nested in either the wisteria or grape vines in the garden, along with the doves. There is plenty of nesting materials available as the garden is fairly wild, and the frequent rain the last few years means there is no shortage of mud.

anonymous 5 years ago

@RaintreeAnnie: Hello to all those who take the time to read this story! I am Jo from Melbourne "Down Under' in Australia! I, like many of you have had, what I thought to be, the same couple nesting in and around my garden for 4 years now. From reading this, that well may be the case! (Or not!) My pair have not successfully had a brood, but have made a nest or two each year, until now!!! I have Mr &amp; Mrs Blackbird (as we lovingly call them) successfully make a nest, sit on what we think are eggs (can't see) and now are taking it in turns to pop in and out to feed. (My hubby thinks we are raising elephants with the amount of feeding they do!) Keeping the majority of local cats away.... but our birds seems to be taking much longer than the times you have given here....is this normal?? love to have feedback!

anonymous 5 years ago

Love this Lens, so beautiful. I love garden birds and feed them here. Thank you for sharing this with us!

Marie 5 years ago

Lovely lens, I love all the blackbird photographs you have taken. You have inspired me to get my camera out and keep trying to get some good nature shots. We unfortunately don't get much wildlife in our garden but our local river is a good place where I could get some nice shots.

anonymous 5 years ago

Thanks for this lovely story! I discovered a nest with eggs when I was pruning trees, so have since left the trees alone. I'm currently watching a pair of blackbirds tend to their chicks in the nest they built in the tree next to my front porch and am looking forward to watching the chicks grow &amp; poke their heads up to say "hello".

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RaintreeAnnie 5 years agofrom UK

@anonymous: Thank you so much for your lovely comment, I appreciate that:) I am glad you enjoy your blackbirds.

anonymous 5 years ago

Thank you for a lovely and beautifully presented story. Iona, my wife and I have been watching a blackbird nest outside the kitchen in the ivy until yesterday when the fledglings left the nest. As we have seen before, they were not ready to fly and are extremely vulnerable. We wondered why that was happened, but now we have the explanation that it is quite usual.

Thank you

anonymous 6 years ago

Thank you for your lovely pictures and notes. It is helpful background info for me as I will be telling the story of St Kevin to my 2nd graders later this week at the Rudolf Steiner School in New York City.

anonymous 6 years ago

We have a blackbird nest in our conifer hedge. I discovered it when trying to find the source of brambles which were poking through. The nest has 4 occupants who look about a week old and are already stretching their wings. I have not seen a female parent though. The male brings food, tidies the nest, takes out the sacs and settles down with them at night. Would this suggest that he has lost his mate, as I have never seen a single parent nest before? We are all rooting for him and doing what we can to deter magpies, cats and other such critters. He and his family are awesome! We feel so privileged.